Flexible display apparatus

ABSTRACT

A flexible display apparatus includes a display panel, a case and a plurality of driving circuits. The display panel is configured to display an image. The display panel includes a first display part, a second display part and a hinge display part. The hinge display part is interposed between the first and second display parts. The hinge display part is configured to be foldable. The case is configured to cover the display panel. The case forms a hinge thickness with the hinge display part and it also forms a peripheral thickness at an end of the case facing away from the hinge display part. The peripheral thickness is greater than the hinge thickness. The driving circuits are disposed between a rear surface of the first display part and the case. Therefore, thickness of the display panel is decreased and its portability is improved.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/700,593, filed Sep. 11, 2017, which is a divisional of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/064,481, filed Oct. 28, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No.9,791,891, which claims priority to and the benefit of Korean PatentApplication No. 10-2013-0060219, filed May 28, 2013, the entire contentof all of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Field

Embodiments of the inventive concept relate generally to a flexibledisplay apparatus having reduced thickness and improved portability.

Description of the Related Technology

A flat panel display apparatus has various characteristics such as thinthickness, small size, light weight, low power consumption, etc. Thus,the flat panel display apparatus has been widely used in various fields.

In order to improve portability of the flat panel display apparatus, afoldable display apparatus has been devised. The foldable displayapparatus has two corresponding panels connected to each other to befolded. However, an image displayed on the two corresponding panels hasdiscontinuity along a boundary between the two corresponding panels.Thus, image display quality is deteriorated.

SUMMARY OF CERTAIN INVENTIVE ASPECTS

Some example embodiments disclosed herein provide a flexible displayapparatus having reduced thickness and improved portability.

According to some example embodiments, a flexible display apparatusincludes a display panel, a case and a plurality of driving circuits.The display panel is configured to display an image. The display partincludes a first display part, a second display part and a hinge displaypart. The hinge display part is interposed between the first and seconddisplay parts. The hinge display part is configured to be foldable. Thecase is configured to cover the display panel. The case forms a hingethickness with the hinge display part and it also forms a peripheralthickness at an end of the case facing away from the hinge display part.The peripheral thickness is greater than the hinge thickness. Theplurality of driving circuits are disposed between a rear surface of thefirst display part and the case.

The case may include a first cover, a second cover and a hinge cover.The first cover may be configured to cover the first display part. Thesecond cover may be configured to cover the second display part. Thehinge cover may be configured to cover the hinge cover.

A first element space may be defined by the rear surface of the firstdisplay part and the first cover. The driving circuits may be disposedin the first element space.

A second element space may be defined by a rear surface of the seconddisplay part and the second cover. The flexible display apparatus mayfurther include a plurality of driving circuits disposed in the secondelement space.

The first display part may be inclined with respect to the first cover.

The second display part may be inclined with respect to the secondcover.

The second display part may be substantially parallel with the secondcover.

The first display part may be inclined with respect to the first cover.

The first display part may be recessed toward the first cover.

The hinge display part may include a first hinge portion, a second hingeportion and a third hinge portion. The first hinge portion may beadjacent to the first display part. The second hinge portion may beadjacent to the second display part. The third hinge portion may beinterposed between the first and second hinge portions.

The case may include a first cover, a second cover and a third cover.The first cover may be configured to cover the first hinge portion andthe first display part. The second cover may be configured to cover thesecond hinge portion and the second display part. The third cover may beconfigured to cover the third hinge portion.

The first display part may be substantially parallel with the firstcover, and the second display part may be substantially parallel withthe second cover.

The first and second hinge portions may be inclined with respect to thefirst and second covers, respectively, and the third hinge portion mayhave a substantially semi circular shape.

The case may include a first cover, a second cover and a third cover.The first cover may be configured to cover the first display part and aportion of the hinge display part adjacent to the first display part.The second cover may be configured to cover the second display part anda portion of the hinge display part adjacent to the second display part.The hinge cover may be configured to cover a central portion of thehinge display part.

The hinge display part may have a substantially cylindrical shape.

The first display part may have a convex shape protruded in a directionopposite to the first cover, and the second display part has a convexshape protruded in a direction opposite to the second cover.

An end of the first display part may be combined with a first end of thecase, and an end of the second display part may be combined with asecond end of the case.

The display panel may further include a first portion and a secondportion. The first portion may be extended from the first display partto be combined with the first end of the case. The second portion may beextended from the second display part to be combined with the second endof the case.

The case may be stretched such that a tension is applied to the ends ofthe first and second display parts, so that the display panel isstretched to have a substantially flat shape.

A rear surface of the hinge display part may directly face the hingecover.

During the wet etching, the line defect caused by overetching isdecreased and resistance at a portion of the line adjacent to the padmay not be increased. Thus, signal transmittance of the lines isincreased, so that an image display quality of the display apparatus maybe improved.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative, non-limiting example embodiments will be more clearlyunderstood from the following detailed description taken in conjunctionwith the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a flexible display apparatusaccording to one example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the flexible display apparatusof FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the flexible displayapparatus of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to another example embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to still another example embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INVENTIVE EMBODIMENTS

Various example embodiments will be described more fully hereinafterwith reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some exampleembodiments are shown. The present inventive concept may, however, beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these exampleembodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough andcomplete, and will fully convey the scope of the present inventiveconcept to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, the sizes andrelative sizes of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity.Like numerals generally refer to like elements throughout.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third etc.may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements shouldnot be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish oneelement from another. Thus, a first element discussed below could betermed a second element without departing from the teachings of thepresent inventive concept. As used herein, the term “and/or” includesany and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being“connected” or “coupled” to another element, it can be directlyconnected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may bepresent. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directlyconnected” or “directly coupled” to another element, there are nointervening elements present. Other words used to describe therelationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion(e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directlyadjacent,” etc.).

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexample embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of thepresent inventive concept. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an”and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless thecontext clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood thatthe terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in thisspecification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps,operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude thepresence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps,operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art to which this inventive concept belongs. Itwill be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonlyused dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art andwill not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unlessexpressly so defined herein.

Recently, a flexible display panel has been devised. The flexibledisplay panel is resistant to an externally provided impact and hasvarious shapes. However, the flexible display panel may not becompletely folded so that an extra space is required between the foldedflexible display panel, thereby increasing a thickness of the flexibledisplay. Thus, portability of the foldable display apparatus having theflexible display panel may be decreased.

In addition, tension is applied to the folded portion of the foldabledisplay apparatus having the flexible display panel. The folded portionreceiving the tension is vulnerable to an externally provided impact,thereby being easily broken.

FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating a flexible display apparatusaccording to one example embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 isa perspective view illustrating the flexible display apparatus ofFIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the flexibledisplay apparatus of FIG. 1.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the flexible display apparatus includes acase 10, a display panel 100, a data driver 170, a first power driver175, a second power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timingcontroller 190.

The case 10 includes a first cover 11, a second cover 12 and a hingecover 13. The case 10 covers the display panel 100, the data driver 170,the first power driver 175, the second power driver 176, the scan driver180 and the timing controller 190. The first cover 11, the hinge cover13 and the second cover 12 are adjacent to each other in sequence.

The first and second covers 11 and 12 include rigid material to haveresistance against an externally provided force.

The hinge cover 13 is disposed between the first and second covers 11and 12. The hinge cover 13 connects the first cover 11 to the secondcover 12. For example, the hinge cover 13 may include a flexiblematerial to be foldable. Alternatively, the hinge cover 13 may include arigid material to be wrinkled, thereby being capable of extendable andcontractible.

The display panel 100 includes a first display part 110, a seconddisplay part 120 and a hinge display part 130. The first display part110, the hinge display part 130 and the second display part 120 areadjacent to each other in sequence. A rear surface of the first displaypart 110 is covered by the first cover 11. A rear surface of the seconddisplay part 120 is covered by the second cover 12. A rear surface ofthe hinge display part 130 is covered by the hinge cover 13.

For example, no other element is interposed between the rear surface ofthe hinge display part 130 and the hinge cover 13. The hinge cover 13and the hinge display part 130 have a hinge thickness Th. For example,the rear surface of the hinge display part 130 directly faces the hingecover 13.

A first element space 22 is defined between the rear surface of thefirst display part 110 and the first cover 11. The first display part110 is inclined with respect to the first cover 11. For example, thefirst display part 110 forms a first inclined angle θ1 with respect tothe first cover 11. A distance between the first display part 110 andthe first cover 11 varies from the hinge thickness Th at an end adjacentto the hinge display part 130 to a peripheral thickness Tr at anopposite end that is opposite to the hinge display part 130. Forexample, the peripheral thickness Tr is greater than the hinge thicknessTh so that the distance between the first display part 110 and the firstcover 11 is increased, as a distance away from the hinge display part130 is increased.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the first elementspace 22. For example, the data driver 170, a data flexible printedcircuit board 171, the first power driver 175 and the timing controller190 are disposed in the first element space 22.

The hinge display part 130 is disposed between the first display part110 and the second display part 120 to connect the first display part110 to the second display part 120. The hinge display part 130 includesflexible material to be foldable. When the hinge display part 130 isfolded, the hinge display part 130 has a semi-circular curvature shape.When the hinge display part 130 is stretched, the hinge display part 130has a substantially flat shape. When the flexible display apparatus isstretched, both ends 101 and 102 of the display panel 100 are extendedby the cover 10 so that a tension is applied to the both ends 101 and102 of the display panel 100. For example, an end of the first displaypart 110 and an end of the second display part 120 are connected to anend of the first cover 11 and an end of the second cover 12,respectively. When the first and second covers 11 and 12 are stretched,the first and second covers 11 and 12 apply the tension to the ends ofthe first and second display parts 110 and 120. Thus, when the case 10is stretched, the display panel 100 has a substantially flat shape.

For example, the first display part 110, the second display part 120 andthe hinge display part 130 have the same flexible material to be formedfrom a same layer. Alternatively, the first and second display parts 110and 120 may have a rigid material, and only the hinge display part 130may include the flexible material.

A second element space 24 is defined between the rear surface of thesecond display part 120 and the second cover 12. The second display part120 is inclined with respect to the second cover 12. For example, thesecond display part 120 forms a second inclined angle θ2 with respect tothe second cover 12. A distance between the second display part 120 andthe second cover 12 varies from the hinge thickness Th at an endadjacent to the hinge display part 130 to a peripheral thickness Tr atan opposite end that is opposite to the hinge display part 130. Theperipheral thickness Tr is greater than the hinge thickness Th so thatthe distance between the second display part 120 and the second cover 12is increased, as a distance away from the hinge display part 130 isincreased.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the second elementspace 24. For example, the second power driver 176, the scan driver 180and the scan flexible printed circuit board 181 are disposed in thesecond element space 24.

A plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines S1, S2, . . . Sn, aplurality of data lines D1, D2, . . . Dm and a plurality of drivinglines G1, G2, . . . Gm are disposed on the first display part 110, thesecond display part 120 and the hinge display part 130.

Each of the pixels PX receives a gate signal, a data signal, a firstdriving voltage and a second driving voltage through the scan lines S1,S2, . . . Sn, the data lines D1, D2, . . . Dm and the driving lines G1,G2, . . . Gm to display an image. For example, each of the pixels PX mayinclude an organic light emitting element. Alternatively, each of thepixels PX may include various display elements such as a liquid crystaldisplay element, an electrophoretic element, a plasma display element,etc.

The data driver 170 receives a data controlling signal from the timingcontroller 190 to apply the data signals to the data lines D1, D2, . . .Dm.

The first power driver 175 receives the driving voltage from the timingcontroller 190 to apply the driving voltage to the first driving voltagelines G1, G2, . . . Gm. The second power driver 176 receives the seconddriving voltage from the timing controller 190 to apply the seconddriving voltage to the second electrode 148. When each of the pixels PXhas a voltage driving element, the first and second power drivers 175and 176 may be omitted. The voltage driving element may include theliquid crystal display element, the electrophoretic element, etc.

The scan driver 180 receives a scan controlling signal from the timingcontroller 190 to apply the scan signals to the scan lines S1, S2, . . .Sn.

The timing controller 190 applies the data controlling signal, the firstdriving voltage, the second driving voltage and the scan controllingsignal to the data driver 170, the first power driver 175, the secondpower driver 176 and the scan driver 180.

According to an example embodiment, the first and second display parts110 and 120 are arranged to be inclined with respect to the first andsecond covers 11 and 12, respectively, to compensate a thickness formedby bending of the hinge display part 130. Thus, the first element space22 is formed between the rear surface of the first display part 110 andthe second element space 24 is formed between the rear surface of thesecond display part 120 and the second cover 12.

Also, the space formed by the bending of the hinge display part 130 isminimized so that space is effectively used. Thus, a thickness of theflexible display apparatus is decreased.

In addition, an externally provided impact that may be applied to thehinge cover 13 or the hinge display part 130 is dissipated to otherportions of the flexible display apparatus, thereby preventing damage ofthe flexible display apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to another example embodiment of the presentinvention. The flexible display apparatus of FIG. 4 is substantially thesame as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except a display panel, a first elementspace and a second element space. Thus, any repetitive explanationconcerning the same elements will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 4, the flexible display apparatus includes a case 10,a display panel 2100, a data driver 170, a first power driver 175, asecond power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timing controller 190.

The case 10 includes a first cover 11, a second cover 12 and a hingecover 13. The case 10 covers the display panel 2100, the data driver170, the first power driver 175, the second power driver 176, the scandriver 180 and the timing controller 190. The first cover 11, the hingecover 13 and the second cover 12 are adjacent to each other, insequence.

The hinge cover 13 is disposed between the first and second covers 11and 12. The hinge cover 13 connects the first cover 11 to the secondcover 12.

The display panel 2100 includes a first display part 2110, a seconddisplay part 2120 and a hinge display part 2130. The first display part2110, the hinge display part 2130 and the second display part 2120 areadjacent to each other, in sequence.

The hinge display part 2130 is disposed between the first display part2110 and the second display part 2120 to connect the first display part2110 to the second display part 2120. The hinge display part 2130includes a first hinge portion 2131, a second hinge portion 2132 and athird hinge portion 2133. The third hinge portion 2133 includes flexiblematerial to be foldable. When the hinge display part 2130 is folded, thehinge display part 2130 has a mixed shape of a semi-circular curvatureshape and substantially flat shapes. When the hinge display part 2130 isstretched, the hinge display part 2130 has a substantially flat shape(shown in FIG. 2). When the flexible display apparatus is stretched,both ends of the display panel 2100 is extended by the cover 10 so thata tension is applied to both ends of the display panel 2100. Forexample, an end of the first display part 2110 and an end of the seconddisplay part 2120 are connected to an end of the first cover 11 and anend of the second cover 12, respectively. When the first and secondcovers 11 and 12 are stretched, the first and second covers 11 and 12apply the tension to the ends of the first and second display parts 2110and 2120. Thus, when the case 10 is stretched, the display panel 2100has a substantially flat shape.

For example, the first display part 2110, the second display part 2120and the hinge display part 2130 have same flexible material to be formedfrom a same layer. Alternatively, the first and second display parts2110 and 2120 may have a rigid material, and only the hinge display part2130 may include the flexible material. Alternatively, the first displaypart 2110, the second display part 2120, the first hinge portion 2131and the second hinge portion 2132 may have a rigid material, and onlythe third hinge portion 2133 may include the flexible material.

The first hinge portion 2131 of the hinge display part 2130 and a rearsurface of the first display part 2110 are covered by the first cover11. The second hinge portion 2132 of the hinge display part 2130 and arear surface of the second display part 2120 are covered by the secondcover 12. The third hinge portion 2133 of the hinge display part 2130 iscovered by the hinge cover 13.

For example, no other element is interposed between the rear surface ofthe third hinge portion 2133 of the hinge display part 2130 and thehinge cover 13. The hinge cover 13 and the rear surface of the thirdhinge portion 2133 of the hinge display part 2130 have a hinge thicknessTh. For example, the rear surface of the third hinge portion 2133 of thehinge display part 2130 directly faces the hinge cover 13.

A first element space 2022 is defined between the first hinge portion2131 of the hinge display part 2130, the rear surface of the firstdisplay part 2110 and the first cover 11. The first hinge portion 2131of the hinge display part 2130 is inclined with respect to the firstcover 11. The rear surface of the first display part 2110 issubstantially parallel with the first cover 11. For example, the firsthinge portion 2131 forms a first inclined angle θ1 with respect to thefirst cover 11. A distance between the first hinge portion 2131 and thefirst cover 11 varies from the hinge thickness Th at an end adjacent tothe third hinge portion 2133 to a peripheral thickness Tr at an oppositeend that is opposite to the third hinge portion 2133. For example, theperipheral thickness Tr is greater than the hinge thickness Th so thatthe distance between the first hinge portion 2131 and the first cover 11is increased, as a distance away from the third hinge portion 2133 isincreased. The first display part 2110 and the first cover 11 form theperipheral thickness Tr.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the first elementspace 2022. For example, the data driver 170, a data flexible printedcircuit board 171, the first power driver 175 and the timing controller190 are disposed in the first element space 2022.

A second element space 2024 is defined between the second hinge portion2132 of the hinge display part 2130, the rear surface of the seconddisplay part 2120 and the second cover 12. The second hinge portion 2132of the hinge display part 2130 is inclined with respect to the secondcover 12. The rear surface of the second display part 2120 issubstantially parallel with the second cover 12. For example, the secondhinge portion 2132 forms a second inclined angle θ2 with respect to thesecond cover 12. A distance between the second hinge portion 2132 andthe second cover 12 varies from the hinge thickness Th at an endadjacent to the third hinge portion 2133 to the peripheral thickness Trat an opposite end that is opposite to the third hinge portion 2133. Forexample, the peripheral thickness Tr is greater than the hinge thicknessTh so that the distance between the second hinge portion 2132 and thesecond cover 12 is increased, as a distance away from the third hingeportion 2133 is increased. The second display part 2120 and the secondcover 12 form the peripheral thickness Tr.

For example, when the flexible display apparatus is folded, the thirdhinge portion 2133 has a curved shape similar to a semi circularcurvature. When the flexible display apparatus is stretched, the thirdhinge portion 2133 is stretched so that the first display part 2110, thesecond display part 2120 and the hinge display part 2130 are arranged ona same plane.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the second elementspace 2024. For example, the second power driver 176, the scan driver180 and the scan flexible printed circuit board 181 are disposed in thesecond element space 2024.

A plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines S1, S2, . . . Sn, aplurality of data lines D1, D2, . . . Dm and a plurality of drivinglines G1, G2, . . . Gm are disposed on the first display part 2110, thesecond display part 2120 and the hinge display part 2130.

According to the present example embodiment, the first hinge portion2131 and the second hinge portion 2132 of the hinge display part 2130are inclined with respect to the first and second covers 11 and 12,respectively. Also, the first and second display parts 2110 and 2120 aresubstantially parallel with respect to the first and second covers 11and 12. Thus, a thickness formed by the bending of the hinge displaypart 2130 is compensated. Also, the first element space 2022 is formedbetween the rear surface of the first hinge portion 2131, the rearsurface of the first display part 2110 and the first cover 11, and thesecond element space 2024 is formed between the rear surface of thesecond hinge portion 2132, the rear surface of the second display part2120 and the second cover 12.

The size of the first and second element spaces 2022 and 2024 aremaximized so that the elements may be integrated into the first andsecond element spaces 2022 and 2024.

Thus, the space formed by the bending of the hinge display part 130 iseffectively used to decrease the thickness of the flexible displayapparatus.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to still another example embodiment of the presentinvention. The flexible display apparatus of FIG. 5 is substantially thesame as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except a display panel, a first elementspace and a second element space. Thus, any repetitive explanationconcerning the same elements will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 5, the flexible display apparatus includes a case 10,a display panel 3100, a data driver 170, a first power driver 175, asecond power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timing controller 190.

The case 10 includes a first cover 11, a second cover 12 and a hingecover 13. The case 10 covers the display panel 3100, the data driver170, the first power driver 175, the second power driver 176, the scandriver 180 and the timing controller 190. The first cover 11, the hingecover 13 and the second cover 12 are adjacent to each other, insequence.

The display panel 3100 includes a first display part 3110, a seconddisplay part 3120 and a hinge display part 3130. The first display part3110, the hinge display part 3130 and the second display part 3120 areadjacent to each other, in sequence.

The hinge display part 3130 is disposed between the first display part3110 and the second display part 3120 to connect the first display part3110 to the second display part 3120. The hinge display part 3130includes flexible material to be foldable. When the hinge display part3130 is folded, the hinge display part 3130 has a curved shape similarto a cylindrical shape. When the hinge display part 3130 is stretched,the hinge display part 3130 has a substantially flat shape (shown inFIG. 2). For example, the first display part 3110, the second displaypart 3120 and the hinge display part 3130 have the same flexiblematerial to be formed from a same layer. Alternatively, the first andsecond display parts 3110 and 3120 may have a rigid material, and onlythe hinge display part 3130 may include the flexible material.

A rear surface of the first display part 3110 and a rear surface of aportion of the hinge display part 3130 adjacent to the first displaypart 3110 are covered by the first cover 11. A rear surface of thesecond display part 3120 and a rear surface of a portion of the hingedisplay part 3130 adjacent to the second display part 3120 are coveredby the second cover 12. A central portion of the hinge display part 3130is covered by the hinge cover 13.

For example, no other element is interposed between the rear surface ofthe central portion of the hinge display part 3130 and the hinge cover13. The hinge cover 13 and the rear surface of the hinge display part3130 have a hinge thickness Th. For example, the rear surface of thehinge display part 3130 directly faces the hinge cover 13.

A first element space 3022 is defined between the rear surface of thefirst display part 3110, the portion of the hinge display part 3130adjacent to the first display part 3110 and the first cover 11. Theportion of the hinge display part 3130 adjacent to the first displaypart 3110 has a curved shape. The rear surface of the first display part3110 is substantially parallel with the first cover 11. A distancebetween the hinge display part 3130 and the first cover 11 varies fromthe hinge thickness Th at the central portion of the hinge display part3130 to a peripheral thickness Tr at an end of the hinge display part3130 adjacent to the first display part 3110. For example, theperipheral thickness Tr is greater than the hinge thickness Th so thatthe distance between the hinge display part 3130 and the first cover 11is increased, as a distance from the first display part 3110 isdecreased. The first display part 3110 and the first cover 11 form theperipheral thickness Tr.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the first elementspace 3022. For example, the data driver 170, a data flexible printedcircuit board 171, the first power driver 175 and the timing controller190 are disposed in the first element space 3022.

A second element space 3024 is defined between the rear surface of thesecond display part 3120, the portion of the hinge display part 3130adjacent to the second display part 3120 and the second cover 12. Theportion of the hinge display part 3130 adjacent to the second displaypart 3120 has a curved shape. The rear surface of the second displaypart 3120 is substantially parallel with the second cover 12. A distancebetween the hinge display part 3130 and the second cover 12 varies fromthe hinge thickness Th at the central portion of the hinge display part3130 to the peripheral thickness Tr at an end of the hinge display part3130 adjacent to the second display part 3120. For example, theperipheral thickness Tr is greater than the hinge thickness Th so thatthe distance between the hinge display part 3130 and the second cover 12is increased, as a distance from the second display part 3120 isdecreased. The second display part 3120 and the second cover 12 form theperipheral thickness Tr.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the second elementspace 3024. For example, the second power driver 176, the scan driver180 and the scan flexible printed circuit board 181 are disposed in thesecond element space 3024.

A plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines S1, S2, . . . Sn, aplurality of data lines D1, D2, . . . Dm and a plurality of drivinglines G1, G2, . . . Gm are disposed on the first display part 3110, thesecond display part 3120 and the hinge display part 3130.

According to the present example embodiment, the first and secondelement spaces 3022 and 3024 are maximized, so that the elements may bemore integrated into the first and second element spaces 3022 and 3024.

Thus, the space formed by the bending of the hinge display part 3130 maybe effectively used to decrease the thickness of the flexible displayapparatus.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention. The flexible display apparatus of FIG. 6 issubstantially the same as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except a display panel,a first element space and a second element space. Thus, any repetitiveexplanation concerning the same elements will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 6, the flexible display apparatus includes a case 10,a display panel 4100, a data driver 170, a first power driver 175, asecond power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timing controller 190.

The case 10 includes a first cover 11, a second cover 12 and a hingecover 13. The case 10 covers the display panel 4100, the data driver170, the first power driver 175, the second power driver 176, the scandriver 180 and the timing controller 190. The first cover 11, the hingecover 13 and the second cover 12 are adjacent to each other, insequence.

The display panel 4100 includes a first display part 4110, a seconddisplay part 4120 and a hinge display part 4130. The first display part4110, the hinge display part 4130 and the second display part 4120 areadjacent to each other, in sequence.

The hinge display part 4130 is disposed between the first display part4110 and the second display part 4120 to connect the first display part4110 to the second display part 4120. The hinge display part 4130includes flexible material to be foldable. When the hinge display part4130 is folded, the hinge display part 4130 has a curved shape similarto a cylindrical shape. When the hinge display part 4130 is stretched,the hinge display part 4130 has a substantially flat shape (shown inFIG. 2). Thus, when the case 10 is stretched, the display panel 4100 hasa substantially flat shape.

A rear surface of the first display part 4110 and a rear surface of aportion of the hinge display part 4130 adjacent to the first displaypart 4110 are covered by the first cover 11. A rear surface of thesecond display part 4120 and a rear surface of a portion of the hingedisplay part 4130 adjacent to the second display part 4120 are coveredby the second cover 12. A central portion of the hinge display part 4130is covered by the hinge cover 13.

For example, no other element is interposed between the rear surface ofthe central portion of the hinge display part 4130 and the hinge cover13. The hinge cover 13 and the rear surface of the hinge display part4130 have a hinge thickness Th. For example, the rear surface of thehinge display part 4130 directly faces the hinge cover 13.

The first display part 4110 has a flexible material to be folded. Whenthe flexible display apparatus is folded, the first display part 4110has a convex shape protruded in a direction opposite to the first cover11. When the flexible display apparatus is stretched, the first displaypart 4110 has a substantially flat shape.

A first element space 4022 is defined between the rear surface of thefirst display part 4110, the portion of the hinge display part 4130adjacent to the first display part 4110 and the first cover 11. Theportion of the hinge display part 4130 adjacent to the first displaypart 4110 has a curved shape. A distance between the hinge display part4130 and the first cover 11 varies from the hinge thickness Th at thecentral portion of the hinge display part 4130 to a peripheral thicknessTr at an end of the hinge display part 4130 adjacent to the firstdisplay part 4110. For example, the peripheral thickness Tr is greaterthan the hinge thickness Th so that the distance between the hingedisplay part 4130 and the first cover 11 is increased, as a distancefrom the first display part 4110 is decreased.

The first display part 4110 and the first cover 11 form the peripheralthickness Tr. An end of a central portion of the first display part 4110and the first cover 11 form a central thickness Tc. For example, thecentral thickness Tc is greater than the peripheral thickness Tr.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the first elementspace 4022. For example, the data driver 170, a data flexible printedcircuit board 171, the first power driver 175 and the timing controller190 are disposed in the first element space 4022.

The second display part 4120 includes a flexible material that may bebent. When the flexible display apparatus is folded, the second cover 12has a convex shape protruded in a direction opposite to the secondcover. When the flexible display apparatus is stretched, the seconddisplay part 4120 has a substantially flat shape (shown in FIG. 2).

A second element space 4024 is defined between the rear surface of thesecond display part 4120, the portion of the hinge display part 4130adjacent to the second display part 4120 and the second cover 12. Theportion of the hinge display part 4130 adjacent to the second displaypart 4120 has a curved shape. A distance between the hinge display part4130 and the second cover 12 varies from the hinge thickness Th at thecentral portion of the hinge display part 4130 to the peripheralthickness Tr at an end of the hinge display part 4130 adjacent to thesecond display part 4120. For example, the peripheral thickness Tr isgreater than the hinge thickness Th so that the distance between thehinge display part 4130 and the second cover 12 is increased, as adistance from the second display part 4120 is decreased. The seconddisplay part 4120 and the second cover 12 form the peripheral thicknessTr.

The end of the second display part 4120 and the second cover 12 form theperipheral thickness Tr. The central portion of the second display part4120 and the second cover 12 form the central thickness Tc.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the second elementspace 4024. For example, the second power driver 176, the scan driver180 and the scan flexible printed circuit board 181 are disposed in thesecond element space 4024.

A plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines S1, S2, . . . Sn, aplurality of data lines D1, D2, . . . Dm and a plurality of drivinglines G1, G2, . . . Gm are disposed on the first display part 4110, thesecond display part 4120 and the hinge display part 4130.

When the flexible display apparatus is stretched, both ends of thedisplay panel 4100 are extended by the cover 10 so that a tension isapplied to the both ends of the display panel 4100. Thus, when the case10 is stretched, the display panel 4100 has a substantially flat shape.For example, an end of the first display part 4110 and an end of thesecond display part 4120 are connected to an end of the first cover 11and an end of the second cover 12, respectively. When the first andsecond covers 11 and 12 are stretched, the first and second covers 11and 12 apply the tension to the ends of the first and second displayparts 4110 and 4120. The tension applied to the ends of the first andsecond display parts 4110 and 4120 is transmitted to the first displaypart 4110, the second display part 4120 and the hinge display part 4130so that the display panel 4100 has a substantially flat shape.

According to the present example embodiment, when the display panel 4100is folded, the first and second display parts 4110 and 4120 have thecurved shapes facing each other to absorb an externally provided impact.Thus, the elements are protected from the externally provided impact,thereby improving credibility.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention. The flexible display apparatus of FIG. 7 issubstantially the same as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except a display panel,a first element space and a second element space. Thus, any repetitiveexplanation concerning the same elements will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 7, the flexible display apparatus includes a case 10,a display panel 5100, a data driver 170, a first power driver 175, asecond power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timing controller 190.

The case 10 includes a first cover 11, a second cover 12 and a hingecover 13. The case 10 covers the display panel 5100, the data driver170, the first power driver 175, the second power driver 176, the scandriver 180 and the timing controller 190. The first cover 11, the hingecover 13 and the second cover 12 are adjacent to each other, insequence.

The display panel 5100 includes a first display part 5110, a seconddisplay part 5125 and a hinge display part 5130. The first display part5110, the hinge display part 5130 and the second display part 5125 areadjacent to each other, in sequence.

The hinge display part 5130 is disposed between the first display part5110 and the second display part 5125 to connect the first display part5110 to the second display part 5125. The hinge display part 5130includes flexible material to be foldable. When the hinge display part5130 is folded, the hinge display part 5130 has a curved shape similarto a semi cylindrical shape. When the hinge display part 5130 isstretched, the hinge display part 5130 has a substantially flat shape(shown in FIG. 2).

A rear surface of the first display part 5110 is covered by the firstcover 11. A rear surface of the second display part 5125 is covered bythe second cover 12. A central portion of the hinge display part 5130 iscovered by the hinge cover 13.

For example, no other element is interposed between the rear surface ofthe hinge display part 5130 and the hinge cover 13. The hinge cover 13and the rear surface of the hinge display part 5130 have a hingethickness Th. For example, the rear surface of the hinge display part5130 directly faces the hinge cover 13.

The first display part 5110 has a flexible material to be folded. Whenthe flexible display apparatus is folded, the first display part 5110has a convex shape protruded toward the first cover 11. When theflexible display apparatus is stretched, the first display part 5110 hasa substantially flat shape.

A first element space 5022 is defined between the rear surface of thefirst display part 5110 and the first cover 11. A distance between thefirst display part 5110 and the first cover 11 varies from the hingethickness Th adjacent to the hinge display part 5130 to a peripheralthickness Tr at an end of the display panel 5100. For example, theperipheral thickness Tr is greater than the hinge thickness Th so thatthe distance between the first display part 5110 and the first cover 11is increased, as a distance from the hinge display part 5130 isincreased.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the first elementspace 5022. For example, the data driver 170, a data flexible printedcircuit board 171, the first power driver 175, a scan driver 180, a scanflexible printed circuit board 181, a second power driver 176 and thetiming controller 190 are disposed in the first element space 5022.

The second display part 5125 includes a flexible material. The seconddisplay part 5125 has a substantially flat shape regardless of foldingor stretching of the flexible display apparatus. Alternatively, thesecond display part 5125 may include a rigid material.

The second display part 5125 and the second cover 12 form the hingethickness.

A plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines S1, S2, . . . Sn, aplurality of data lines D1, D2, . . . Dm and a plurality of drivinglines G1, G2, . . . Gm are disposed on the first display part 5110, thesecond display part 5125 and the hinge display part 5130.

When the flexible display apparatus is stretched, both ends of thedisplay panel 5100 is extended by the cover 10 so that a tension isapplied to the both ends of the display panel 5100. An end of the firstdisplay part 5110 and an end of the second display part 5125 areconnected to an end of the first cover 11 and an end of the second cover12, respectively. When the first and second covers 11 and 12 arestretched, the first and second covers 11 and 12 apply the tension tothe ends of the first and second display parts 5110 and 5125. Thetension applied to the ends of the first and second display parts 5110and 5125 is transmitted to the first display part 5110, the seconddisplay part 5125 and the hinge display part 5130 so that the displaypanel 5100 has a substantially flat shape.

According to the present example embodiment, a lot of elements areintegrated into the first element space 5022 so that fabrication of theflexible display apparatus may be simplified.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention. The flexible display apparatus of FIG. 8 issubstantially the same as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except a display panel,a first element space and a second element space. Thus, any repetitiveexplanation concerning the same elements will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 8, the flexible display apparatus includes a case 10,a display panel 6100, a data driver 170, a first power driver 175, asecond power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timing controller 190.

The case 10 includes a first cover 11, a second cover 12 and a hingecover 13. The case 10 covers the display panel 6100, the data driver170, the first power driver 175, the second power driver 176, the scandriver 180 and the timing controller 190. The first cover 11, the hingecover 13 and the second cover 12 are adjacent to each other, insequence.

The display panel 6100 includes a first display part 6110, a seconddisplay part 6125 and a hinge display part 6130. The first display part6110, the hinge display part 6130 and the second display part 6125 areadjacent to each other, in sequence. In the present example embodiment,the hinge display part 6130 and the second display part 6125 aresubstantially the same as the hinge display part 5130 and the seconddisplay part 5125 of FIG. 7. Thus, any repetitive explanation concerningthe hinge display part and the second display part will be omitted.

A rear surface of the first display part 6110 is covered by the firstcover 11.

The first display part 6110 has a flexible material to be folded. Whenthe flexible display apparatus is folded, the first display part 6110 isinclined at an inclined angle θ3 with respect to the first cover 11. Forexample, the first display part 6110 has a substantially flat shapealthough the flexible display apparatus is folded.

A first element space 6022 is defined between the rear surface of thefirst display part 6110 and the first cover 11. A distance between thefirst display part 6110 and the first cover 11 varies from the hingethickness Th adjacent to the hinge display part 6130 to a peripheralthickness Tr at an end of the display panel 6100. For example, theperipheral thickness Tr is greater than the hinge thickness Th so thatthe distance between the first display part 6110 and the first cover 11is increased, as a distance from the hinge display part 6130 isincreased.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the first elementspace 6022. For example, the data driver 170, a data flexible printedcircuit board 171, the first power driver 175, a scan driver 180, a scanflexible printed circuit board 181, a second power driver 176 and thetiming controller 190 are disposed in the first element space 6022.

A plurality of pixels PX, a plurality of scan lines S1, S2, . . . Sn, aplurality of data lines D1, D2, . . . Dm and a plurality of drivinglines G1, G2, . . . Gm are disposed on the first display part 6110, thesecond display part 6125 and the hinge display part 6130.

When the flexible display apparatus is stretched, both ends of thedisplay panel 6100 is extended by the cover 10 so that a tension isapplied to the both ends of the display panel 6100. For example, an endof the first display part 6110 and an end of the second display part6125 are connected to an end of the first cover 11 and an end of thesecond cover 12, respectively. When the first and second covers 11 and12 are stretched, the first and second covers 11 and 12 apply thetension to the ends of the first and second display parts 6110 and 6125.The tension applied to the ends of the first and second display parts6110 and 6125 is transmitted to the first display part 6110, the seconddisplay part 6125 and the hinge display part 6130 so that the displaypanel 6100 has a substantially flat shape.

According to the present example embodiment, a lot of the elements areintegrated into the first element space 6022 so that the flexibledisplay apparatus may be easily fabricated. Also, the size of the firstelement space 6022 is increased regardless of the size of the flexibledisplay apparatus. Thus, the size and thickness of the flexible displayapparatus may be decreased.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention. The flexible display apparatus of FIG. 9 issubstantially the same as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except a display panel,a first element space and a second element space. Thus, any repetitiveexplanation concerning the same elements will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 9, the flexible display apparatus includes a case 10,a display panel 7100, a data driver 170, a first power driver 175, asecond power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timing controller 190.

The case 10 includes a first cover 11, a second cover 12 and a hingecover 13. The case 10 covers the display panel 7100, the data driver170, the first power driver 175, the second power driver 176, the scandriver 180 and the timing controller 190. The first cover 11, the hingecover 13 and the second cover 12 are adjacent to each other, insequence.

The display panel 7100 includes a first display part 7110, a seconddisplay part 7120, a hinge display part 7130, a first extended part 7142and a second extended part 7144. The first extended part 7142, the firstdisplay part 7110, the hinge display part 7130, the second display part7120 and the second extended part 7144 are adjacent to each other, insequence.

A first element space 7022 is defined between the rear surface of thefirst display part 7110 and the first cover 11. The first display part7110 is inclined with respect to the first cover 11. For example, thefirst display part 710 may be inclined at a first angle θ1 with respectto the first cover 11.

The first extended part 7142 is extended from an end of the firstdisplay part 7110 toward the first element space 7022. The firstextended part 7142 is connected to an end of the first cover 11. Thefirst extended part 7142 increases combining strength between thedisplay panel 7100 and the first cover 11.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the first elementspace 7022. For example, the first extended part 7142, the data driver170, a data flexible printed circuit board 171, the first power driver175 and the timing controller 190 are disposed in the first elementspace 7022.

A second element space 7024 is defined between a rear surface of thesecond display part 7120 and the second cover 12. The second displaypart 7120 is inclined with respect to the second cover 12. For example,the second display part 7120 may be inclined at a second angle θ2 withrespect to the second cover 12.

The second extended part 7144 is extended from an end of the seconddisplay part 7120 toward the second element space 7024. The secondextended part 7144 is connected to an end of the second cover 12. Thesecond extended part 7144 increases combining strength between thedisplay panel 7100 and the second cover 12.

Elements such as a driving circuit are disposed in the second elementspace 7024. For example, the second extended part 7144, the scan driver180 and a scan flexible printed circuit board 181 are disposed in thesecond element space 7024.

When the hinge display part 7130 is folded, the hinge display part 7130has a curved shape similar to a semi circular shape. When the hingedisplay part 7130 is stretched, the hinge display part 7130 has asubstantially flat shape. When the flexible display apparatus isstretched, both ends of the display panel 7100 is extended by the cover10 so that a tension is applied to the both ends of the display panel7100. An end of the first display part 7110 and an end of the seconddisplay part 7120 are connected to an end of the first cover 11 and anend of the second cover 12, respectively. When the first and secondcovers 11 and 12 are stretched, the first and second covers 11 and 12apply the tension to the ends of the first and second display parts 7110and 7120. The tension applied to the ends of the first and seconddisplay parts 7110 and 7120 is transmitted to the first display part7110, the second display part 7120 and the hinge display part 7130 sothat the display panel 7100 has a substantially flat shape.

According to the present example embodiment, the display panel 7100further includes the first and second extended parts 7142 and 7144, sothat the display panel 7100 is securely combined with the first andsecond covers 11 and 12. Thus, a defect of dislocation cased byseparation of the ends of the display panel 7100 from the first cover 11or the second cover 12 during the folding and stretching the flexibledisplay apparatus may be decreased.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention. The flexible display apparatus of FIG. 10 issubstantially the same as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except a display panel,a first element space and a second element space. Thus, any repetitiveexplanation concerning the same elements will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 10, the flexible display apparatus includes a case 10,a display panel 8100, a data driver 170, a first power driver 175, asecond power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timing controller 190.

The display panel 8100 includes a first display part 8110, a seconddisplay part 8120, a hinge display part 8130, a first extended part 8142and a second extended part 8144. The first extended part 8142, the firstdisplay part 8110, the hinge display part 8130, the second display part8120 and the second extended part 8144 are adjacent to each other, insequence.

For example, the hinge display part 8130 includes a first hinge portion8131, a second hinge portion 8132 and a third hinge portion 8133. Whenthe flexible display apparatus is folded, the hinge display part 8130has a folded shape. When the hinge display part 8130 is stretched, thehinge display part 8130 has a substantially flat shape (shown in FIG.2).

A first element space 8022 is defined between a rear surface of thefirst hinge portion 8131, a rear surface of the first display part 8110and the first cover 11. The first hinge portion 8131 is inclined withrespect to the first cover 11. For example, the first hinge portion 8131may be inclined at a first inclined angle θ1 with respect to the firstcover 11.

The first extended part 8142 is extended from an end of the firstdisplay part 8110 toward the first element space 8022. The firstextended part 8142 is connected to an end of the first cover 11. Thefirst extended part 8142 increases combining strength between thedisplay panel 8100 and the first cover 11.

Elements such as the first extended part 8142, a driving circuit, etc.,are disposed in the first element space 8022. For example, the firstextended part 8142, the data driver 170, a data flexible printed circuitboard 171, the first power driver 175 and the timing controller 190 aredisposed in the first element space 8022.

A second element space 8024 is defined between a rear surface of thesecond hinge portion 8132, a rear surface of the second display part8120 and the second cover 12. The second hinge portion 8132 is inclinedwith respect to the second cover 12. For example, the second hingeportion 8132 may be inclined at a second inclined angle θ2 with respectto the second cover 12.

The second extended part 8144 is extended from an end of the seconddisplay part 8120 toward the second element space 8024. The secondextended part 8144 is connected to an end of the second cover 12. Thesecond extended part 8144 increases combining strength between thedisplay panel 8100 and the second cover 12.

Elements such as the second extended part 8144, a driving circuit, etc.,are disposed in the first element space 8024. For example, the secondextended part 8144, the scan driver 180 and the scan flexible printedcircuit board 181 are disposed in the second element space 8024.

When the flexible display apparatus is folded, the hinge display part8130 has a mixed shape including a curved shape and a substantially flatshape. That is, the first and second hinge portions 8131 and 8132 of thehinge display part 8130 have the substantially flat shape, and the thirdhinge portion 8133 of the hinge display part 8130 has the substantiallycurved shape similar to a semi circular shape. When the flexible displayapparatus is stretched, the hinge display part 8130 has a substantiallyflat shape. When the flexible display apparatus is stretched, both endsof the display panel 8100 is extended by the cover 10 so that a tensionis applied to the both ends of the display panel 8100. An end of thefirst display part 8110 and an end of the second display part 8120 areconnected to an end of the first cover 11 and an end of the second cover12, respectively. When the first and second covers 11 and 12 arestretched, the first and second covers 11 and 12 apply the tension tothe ends of the first and second display parts 8110 and 8120. Thetension applied to the ends of the first and second display parts 8110and 8120 is transmitted to the first and second extended parts 8142 and8144, the first and second display parts 8110 and 8120 and the hingedisplay part 8130 so that the display panel 8100 has a substantiallyflat shape.

According to the present example embodiment, the display panel 8100includes the first and second extended parts 8142 and 8144, so that thedisplay panel 8100 is securely combined with the first and second covers11 and 12. Thus, a defect of dislocation cased by separation of the endsof the display panel 8100 from the first cover 11 or the second cover 12during the folding and stretching the flexible display apparatus may bedecreased.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention. The flexible display apparatus of FIG. 11 issubstantially the same as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except a display panel,a first element space and a second element space. Thus, any repetitiveexplanation concerning the same elements will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 11, the flexible display apparatus includes a case 10,a display panel 9100, a data driver 170, a first power driver 175, asecond power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timing controller 190.

The display panel 9100 includes a first display part 9110, a seconddisplay part 9120, a hinge display part 9130, a first extended part 9142and a second extended part 9144. The first extended part 9142, the firstdisplay part 9110, the hinge display part 9130, the second display part9120 and the second extended part 9144 are adjacent to each other, insequence.

For example, the hinge display part 9130 is disposed between the firstand second display parts 9110 and 9120 to connect the first display part9110 to the second display part 9120. When the flexible displayapparatus is folded, the hinge display part 9130 has a curved shapesimilar to a cylindrical shape. When the hinge display part 9130 isstretched, the hinge display part 9130 has a substantially flat shape(shown in FIG. 2).

A rear surface of the first display part 9110 and a rear surface of aportion of the hinge display part 9130 adjacent to the first displaypart 9110 are covered by the first cover 11. A rear surface of thesecond display part 9120 and a rear surface of a portion of the hingedisplay part 9130 adjacent to the second display part 9120 are coveredby the second cover 12. A rear surface of a central portion of the hingedisplay part 9130 is covered by the hinge cover 13.

The rear surface of the first display part 9110, the rear surface of theportion of the hinge display part 9130 adjacent to the first displaypart 9110 and the first cover 11 define a first element space 9022. Theportion of the hinge display part 9130 adjacent to the first displaypart 9110 has a curved shape. The rear surface of the first display part9110 is substantially parallel with the first cover 11.

The first extended part 9142 is extended from an end of the firstdisplay part 9110 toward the first element space 9022. The firstextended part 9142 is connected to an end of the first cover 11. Thefirst extended part 9142 increases combining strength between thedisplay panel 9100 and the first cover 11.

Elements such as the first extended part 9142, a driving circuit, etc.,are disposed in the first element space 9022. For example, the firstextended part 9142, the data driver 170, a data flexible printed circuitboard 171, the first power driver 175 and the timing controller 190 aredisposed in the first element space 9022.

A second element space 9024 is defined between a rear surface of thesecond display part 9120, a rear surface of a portion of the hingedisplay part 9130 adjacent to the second display part 9120 and thesecond cover 12. The portion of the hinge display part 9130 adjacent tothe second display part 9120 has a curved shape. The rear surface of thesecond display part 9120 is substantially parallel with the second cover12.

The second extended part 9144 is extended from an end of the seconddisplay part 9120 toward the second element space 9024. The secondextended part 9144 is connected to an end of the second cover 12. Thesecond extended part 9144 increases combining strength between thedisplay panel 9100 and the second cover 12.

Elements such as the second extended part 9144, a driving circuit, etc.,are disposed in the first element space 9024. For example, the secondextended part 9144, the second power driver 176, the scan driver 180 andthe scan flexible printed circuit board 181 are disposed in the secondelement space 9024.

When the flexible display apparatus is folded, the hinge display part9130 has a curved shape similar to a cylindrical shape. When theflexible display apparatus is stretched, the hinge display part 9130 hasa substantially flat shape. When the flexible display apparatus isstretched, both ends of the display panel 9100 is extended by the cover10 so that a tension is applied to the both ends of the display panel9100. An end of the first display part 9110 and an end of the seconddisplay part 9120 are connected to an end of the first cover 11 and anend of the second cover 12, respectively. When the first and secondcovers 11 and 12 are stretched, the first and second covers 11 and 12apply the tension to the ends of the first and second display parts 9110and 9120. The tension applied to the ends of the first and seconddisplay parts 9110 and 9120 is transmitted to the first and secondextended parts 9142 and 9144, the first and second display parts 9110and 9120 and the hinge display part 9130 so that the display panel 9100has a substantially flat shape.

According to the present example embodiment, the display panel 9100includes the first and second extended parts 9142 and 9144, so that thedisplay panel 9100 is securely combined with the first and second covers11 and 12.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a flexible displayapparatus according to further still another example embodiment of thepresent invention. The flexible display apparatus of FIG. 12 issubstantially the same as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 except a display panel,a first element space and a second element space. Thus, any repetitiveexplanation concerning the same elements will be omitted.

Referring to FIG. 12, the flexible display apparatus includes a case 10,a display panel 10100, a data driver 170, a first power driver 175, asecond power driver 176, a scan driver 180 and a timing controller 190.

The display panel 10100 includes a first display part 10110, a seconddisplay part 10120, a hinge display part 10130, a first extended part10142 and a second extended part 10144. The first extended part 10142,the first display part 10110, the hinge display part 10130, the seconddisplay part 10120 and the second extended part 10144 are adjacent toeach other, in sequence.

For example, the hinge display part 10130 is disposed between the firstand second display parts 10110 and 10120 to connect the first displaypart 10110 to the second display part 10120. For example, the hingedisplay part 10130 includes a flexible material to be foldable. When theflexible display apparatus is folded, the hinge display part 10130 has acurved shape similar to a cylindrical shape. When the hinge display part10130 is stretched, the hinge display part 10130 has a substantiallyflat shape (shown in FIG. 2).

The first display part 10110 includes a flexible material. When theflexible display apparatus is folded, the first display part 10110 has aconvex shape protruded in a direction opposite to the first cover. Whenthe flexible display apparatus is stretched, the first display part10110 has a substantially flat shape.

A rear surface of the first display part 10110, a rear surface of aportion of the hinge display part 10130 adjacent to the first displaypart 10110 and the first cover 11 define a first element space 10022.

The first extended part 10142 is extended from an end of the firstdisplay part 10110 toward the first element space 10022. The firstextended part 10142 is connected to an end of the first cover 11. Thefirst extended part 10142 increases combining strength between thedisplay panel 10100 and the first cover 11.

Elements such as the first extended part 10142, a driving circuit, etc.,are disposed in the first element space 10022. For example, the firstextended part 10142, the data driver 170, a data flexible printedcircuit board 171, the first power driver 175 and the timing controller190 are disposed in the first element space 10022.

A second element space 10024 is defined between a rear surface of thesecond display part 10120, a rear surface of a portion of the hingedisplay part 10130 adjacent to the second display part 10120 and thesecond cover 12.

The second extended part 10144 is extended from an end of the seconddisplay part 10120 toward the second element space 10024. The secondextended part 10144 is connected to an end of the second cover 12. Thesecond extended part 10144 increases combining strength between thedisplay panel 10100 and the second cover 12.

Elements such as the second extended part 10144, a driving circuit,etc., are disposed in the first element space 10024. For example, thesecond extended part 10144, the second power driver 176, the scan driver180 and the scan flexible printed circuit board 181 are disposed in thesecond element space 10024.

When the flexible display apparatus is folded, the hinge display part10130 has a curved shape similar to a cylindrical shape. When theflexible display apparatus is stretched, the hinge display part 10130has a substantially flat shape. When the flexible display apparatus isstretched, both ends of the display panel 10100 is extended by the cover10 so that a tension is applied to the both ends of the display panel10100. An end of the first display part 10110 and an end of the seconddisplay part 10120 are connected to an end of the first cover 11 and anend of the second cover 12, respectively. When the first and secondcovers 11 and 12 are stretched, the first and second covers 11 and 12apply the tension to the ends of the first and second display parts10110 and 10120. The tension applied to the ends of the first and seconddisplay parts 10110 and 10120 is transmitted to the first and secondextended parts 10142 and 10144, the first and second display parts 10110and 10120 and the hinge display part 10130 so that the display panel10100 has a substantially flat shape.

According to the present example embodiment, the display panel 10100includes the first and second extended parts 10142 and 10144, so thatthe display panel 10100 is securely combined with the first and secondcovers 11 and 12.

The above-mentioned example embodiments disclose an organic lightemitting display apparatus. However, the present invention can also beapplied to various display apparatuses such as a liquid crystal displayapparatus, an electrophoretic display apparatus, a plasma displayapparatus, and the like.

According to the examples of the present invention, the display part ofthe display panel is inclined with respect to the cover to compensatethe thickness formed by the bending of the hinge display part. Thus, theelement space is formed between the rear surface of the display part andthe cover, thereby decreasing the thickness of the flexible displayapparatus.

In addition, an externally provided impact that may be applied to thehinge cover or the hinge display part is dissipated to other portions ofthe flexible display apparatus, thereby preventing damage of theflexible display apparatus.

Also, the first and second display parts have the convex shapes facingeach other to absorb the externally provided impact. Thus, the elementsare protected from the externally provided impact to increasecredibility.

Furthermore, the display panel includes the extended part to be securelycombined with the cover.

The foregoing is illustrative of example embodiments and is not to beconstrued as limiting thereof. Although a few example embodiments havebeen described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate thatmany modifications are possible in the example embodiments withoutmaterially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of thepresent inventive concept. Accordingly, all such modifications areintended to be included within the scope of the present inventiveconcept as defined in the claims. Therefore, it is to be understood thatthe foregoing is illustrative of various example embodiments and is notto be construed as limited to the specific example embodimentsdisclosed, and that modifications to the disclosed example embodiments,as well as other example embodiments, are intended to be included withinthe scope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A flexible display apparatus comprising: a display panel configured to display an image, the display panel comprising: a first display part; a second display part; and a hinge display part interposed between the first and second display parts, the hinge display part configured to be foldable, wherein the hinge display part comprises: a first hinge portion adjacent to the first display part; a second hinge portion adjacent to the second display part; and a third hinge portion interposed between the first and second hinge portions; a case configured to cover the display panel, the case forming a hinge thickness with the hinge display part and further forming a peripheral thickness at an end of the case facing away from the hinge display part, the peripheral thickness being greater than the hinge thickness; and a plurality of driving circuits disposed between a rear surface of the first display part and the case, wherein the first hinge portion is inclined at a first angle with respect to the first display part, the second hinge portion is inclined at a second angle with respect to the second display part, and the third hinge portion has a substantially semi circular shape.
 2. The flexible display apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first angle is equal to the second angle.
 3. The flexible display apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first angle is different from the second angle.
 4. The flexible display apparatus of claim 1, wherein a distance between the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion decreases in a direction toward the end of the case when the flexible display apparatus is completely folded.
 5. The flexible display apparatus of claim 4, wherein the distance between the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion is smaller than or equal to a distance between both ends of the third hinge portion when the flexible display apparatus is completely folded.
 6. The flexible display apparatus of claim 4, wherein the distance between the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion is greater than or equal to a distance between the first display part and the second display part when the flexible display apparatus is completely folded.
 7. The flexible display apparatus of claim 1, wherein the case comprises: a first cover configured to cover the first hinge portion and the first display part; a second cover configured to cover the second hinge portion and the second display part; and a third cover configured to cover the third hinge portion.
 8. The flexible display apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first display part is substantially parallel with the first cover, and the second display part is substantially parallel with the second cover. 